Shelterihna Alokoa
Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?
I enjoy teaching and try to teach whenever and wherever I can. At Pacific Islands University, I’ve tutored students and helped them create study and graduation plans. In the past, I also developed curriculum for an English summer camp in Taiwan, where a team of us taught English for a week to about 60 children in Hualien, ages ranging from 4 to 15. In my current government job, I assisted in training colleagues on how to use Zoom and recently helped develop a training curriculum for a new technical position. I also occasionally teach students ranging from elementary to college age at the church I attend.
What sparked your initial interest in your career?
I started teaching at a young age. During summer breaks, I would give lessons and assignments to my nieces and younger siblings. I also love learning and have always been curious. When I was growing up, we didn't have internet at our family home so I used to read all the books and encyclopedias I could find. I even used to read the dictionary for fun.
I didn’t think much about teaching again until I took a pedagogy class in college for credit. I had so much fun being a guest teacher at a local elementary school that I decided to add Education as my minor. For my practicum, I was a student teacher at another local school for a few months. I remember on the first day of class, I wasn’t nervous—I was just so excited! Each day in that classroom further affirmed my love for teaching.
Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?
God has brought so many incredible people into my life. I’m inspired and encouraged every day by my 'tribe'—my close friends and family. My parents homeschooled me and my siblings when I was in elementary school. They taught me how to read and many valuable life lessons. My aunties and uncles always encouraged my cousins and me about the importance of education and how it can not only broaden our horizons but also open doors to countless opportunities. I have numerous relatives and friends who inspire me with how passionate and dedicated they are to their respective fields—from my boss, who’s been fighting for justice since the '80s, to my aunty, who finished translating the Bible into her indigenous language, Nukuoran, after many years. I truly appreciate them all.
What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?
I really enjoy the interaction between students and teacher. I've learned a lot from students from every age group I've taught. I also love that Eureka moment when a student finally understands something -- their eyes shining in excitement.
How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?
I was in Palau for a conference in October 2024 when I saw the Nautilus ship docked! My friend and I heard about a special event they were hosting on shore that night, but we couldn't make it. Instead, my friend found the livestream website. I checked it out and got hooked! I read about all the incredible things Nautilus does and watched the livestream while they were in Palau. It was amazing to see what they discovered deep underwater.
That same friend also showed me that Nautilus was offering internships. The opportunity sounded incredible. I always try to challenge myself, and this seemed like the perfect chance to gain more teaching experience, learn about marine conservation, and push myself to be more outgoing. I'm also excited to meet everyone who works on the ship and learn as much as I can from such a wide range of professionals.
What other jobs led you to your current career?
I did almost every work-study job on campus while I was a student at Pacific Islands University. I worked with the audio-visual team, the library team, the cleaning crew, and was even a residential assistant for many years. Each position offered me unique opportunities to learn and grow. Working with the audio-visual team, I learned how to handle audio and visual equipment, while the library team taught me the value of organization and attention to detail. As a member of the cleaning crew, I learned the importance of teamwork and maintaining a positive attitude in all tasks. My role as a residential assistant helped me develop my leadership and interpersonal skills. By working with such a diverse group of staff and students, I was able to build lasting relationships, gain valuable experience, and learn to appreciate different cultures, many of which I still carry with me today.
What are your degrees and certifications?
Bachelor of Liberal Studies with a minor in Education - Pacific Islands University 2019;
PADI Open Water Diver Scuba Diving Certificate
What are your hobbies?
To name a few, I really enjoy spending time with my family and friends, so we often go to the beach, go hiking, or sing karaoke. We also love trying new activities—what we call ‘side quests’—like the time we somehow ended up assisting with an invasive tree snake hunt on Islan Dåno'. I also enjoy hosting small gatherings, listening to people ‘talk story,’ scuba diving, snorkeling, reading, and playing cozy video games.
What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?
I found out I like teaching by trying out different fields. I give the same advice to high school and college students. If you don't know what field you're interested in yet, try to connect with professionals in that field. In my experience, I've found people are often willing to share their work experiences if you just ask. Also, seek out opportunities for hands-on experience. If you think you like computer science, consider taking one of the many free certification courses online. If you think you like nursing, volunteer at a local retirement home or clinic. There are many volunteer and internship opportunities just like the ones with Nautilus!
